Montessori and the National Quality Framework
Montessori childcare in Australia operates within the same national system that governs all early childhood education — the National Quality Framework (NQF). While the Montessori philosophy emphasises independence and individual learning, it aligns naturally with the NQF’s focus on quality, safety, and outcomes for every child.
Understanding the NQF
The National Quality Framework was introduced to raise the standard of early education across Australia. It brings together:
- The Education and Care Services National Law and Regulations
- The National Quality Standard (NQS)
- The Assessment and Rating process
- The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF v2.0)
These components ensure that every approved service — including Montessori programs — meets consistent benchmarks for safety, curriculum, and continuous improvement.
How Montessori Fits Within the NQF
Montessori education complements the NQF rather than existing outside it. Montessori centres adapt the NQF’s seven quality areas through their unique practices:
| NQF Quality Area | Montessori Alignment |
|---|---|
| 1. Educational program and practice | Individualised Montessori curriculum promoting independence and curiosity |
| 2. Children’s health and safety | Calm, predictable environments that support wellbeing and self-care |
| 3. Physical environment | Prepared classrooms with natural materials and child-sized furniture |
| 4. Staffing arrangements | Qualified educators trained in Montessori philosophy |
| 5. Relationships with children | Respectful guidance fostering trust and cooperation |
| 6. Collaborative partnerships with families | Parent communication and involvement in learning progress |
| 7. Governance and leadership | Continuous reflection on practice through Montessori and NQF standards |
This integration allows Montessori centres to maintain authenticity while meeting Australia’s regulatory expectations.
Montessori and the EYLF v2.0
The Early Years Learning Framework shares many values with Montessori — particularly its emphasis on belonging, being, and becoming.
Both approaches:
- Recognise children as capable learners.
- Promote play and exploration as learning tools.
- Value relationships, respect, and agency.
Montessori educators map EYLF outcomes to Montessori curriculum areas, ensuring consistency with national reporting and family communication.
Why This Matters for Parents
For families, this alignment means peace of mind:
- Montessori childcare is fully recognised and regulated under Australian law.
- Educators must meet professional standards for training, safety, and curriculum.
- Montessori principles can thrive within a trusted, accountable framework.
Choosing a Montessori service doesn’t mean stepping outside the system — it means choosing a distinctive, quality-assured approach within it.
Montessori and the National Quality Framework FAQs
Q: Is Montessori childcare approved under the NQF?
A: Yes. Montessori services are approved and assessed under the same national standards as all early learning services in Australia.
Q: Do Montessori programs follow the EYLF v2.0?
A: Yes. Montessori programs integrate EYLF outcomes while retaining Montessori’s focus on independence and self-directed learning.
Q: Are Montessori educators required to hold qualifications?
A: All Montessori educators must meet Australian qualification standards under the NQF. Many hold additional Montessori training accredited by Montessori Australia or AMI.
Q: How do parents know if a centre is genuinely Montessori?
A: Look for membership with recognised bodies (e.g., Montessori Australia) and references to authentic Montessori materials and multi-age classrooms.